TNZ celebrates countdown to ICC CWC 2015 at Lord’s cricket ground

28 Jul 2014

New Zealand cricket legend Sir Richard Hadlee went into bat at Lord's cricket ground in London on 22 July, alongside Tourism New Zealand.

The activity was part of Tourism New Zealand's work to increase awareness of New Zealand as co-host of the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup and encourage travellers to visit New Zealand during the event which kicks off in just six-month's time.

The event was timed to leverage the current high-levels of interest in all things cricket in the UK following the conclusion of England's latest test against India, and with just one month until the Cricket World Cup Trophy Tour arrives at Lords - the Home of Cricket.

The giant inflatable cricket ball that has travelled around New Zealand's 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup host cities and tourist hotspots also made its first UK appearance at the event.

During his visit, Sir Richard also met some of Tourism New Zealand's key trade partners at an event at New Zealand House to promote the tournament as another great reason to visit New Zealand.

Danielle Genty-Nott, Tourism New Zealand Regional Manager UK and Europe commented, "Next year's ICC Cricket World Cup is the perfect opportunity to experience the buzz of a high stakes global sports event with ample time to explore New Zealand's diverse and beautiful country in between matches."

The tournament will be the first in an exciting line up of international sporting events in New Zealand over the next few years including the FIFA U20 World Cup from May -June 2015, World Masters Games in April 2017 and the British and Irish Lions Tour also in 2017.